A lot of sources claim that you don't need an attorney and can file for your own bankruptcy, but that's not true.The filing procedure is very strict and complex.If you make a mistake, you could lose the ability to refile.If you decide to file for bankruptcy, you need a lawyer who has the experience and expertise to ensure your case runs smoothly, but who you are comfortable working with.
Step 1: Talk to people you know.
You can use people you know and trust to find attorneys who will meet your needs.If you know anyone else who has filed for bankruptcy, ask them which attorney they used and if he or she is someone they would recommend.You can ask the attorneys who they would suggest.Attorneys attend bar association meetings and law school in order to get to know attorneys who work outside of their field of practice, such as divorce and bankruptcy.As you build your list of prospects, you can use people you know in legal circles to help you vet candidates.They can tell you if you should avoid someone or not.If you're concerned about your ability to pay a lawyer's fees, find out if you qualify for free or reduced-cost services through local legal aid societies.If you live near a law school, there may be a clinic that can help you.
Step 2: Check with your bar association.
You can find attorneys who are licensed to practice in your area on the websites of the bar associations.It's possible to limit your search to attorneys who practice certain types of law, so you can find more quickly.If the attorney's license is in good standing or if he or she has been the subject of professional discipline, the bar association should have that information.Legal directories can help you find attorneys.Usually, these services review attorneys' licenses andDisciplinary records before allowing them to be included, so you don't have to conduct another search to verify that information.
Step 3: Evaluate websites of attorneys.
You can learn more about an attorney through his or her website.Attorneys usually have a bio page with information about their educational background, hobbies, and interests.Don't be afraid to strike someone off of your list simply because they seem like a bad fit.You should feel comfortable favoring someone for a seemingly irrelevant reason.You would be drawn to an attorney who has the same dogs if you have a champion Golden Retriever.In the midst of a bankruptcy, it's important that you establish a relationship with your attorney.If you have a fairly complex case with significant assets you want to protect, you should look for someone who is a board-certified specialist in bankruptcy law.These attorneys are leading experts in the field and must take additional tests to earn this qualification.It shouldn't matter if the attorney's website uses all the latest trends and tricks.It's important that the information is easy to read, free of errors, and the site is simple to navigate.
Step 4: Look for reviews from clients.
It is possible to learn more about what it is like to work with an attorney through testimonials from previous clients.When reading reviews, look at things that are important to you.If it's important to you that your attorney respond to your calls and emails within 24 hours, you're not going to be satisfied with an attorney who has repeated complaints about how he never returns phone calls.You can dismiss complaints about things that are unimportant to you.An attorney's office isn't on the bus line if you have a car.
Step 5: Take a look at your list of candidates.
Pick a few attorneys you would like to meet in person and use the information you've gained from your initial search.You may think of this stage of your search as if you are looking for a house or apartment to rent.You want to rank them as you go.A few will rise to the top of your list, and those are the places you'll take a look at first.
Step 6: You should schedule an initial consultation.
Before you make your final selection, you should have at least three initial consultations with potential attorneys.Most bankruptcy attorneys provide a free initial consultation, but don't shy away from an attorney who charges a small fee only on that basis.If you can't get an appointment with an attorney in a few weeks, you might want to skip him or her.If you want things done as quickly as possible, an attorney who is busy may not have the time to devote to your case.If the attorneys have informational forms or lists of documents they want for your initial consultation, submit them as soon as possible so the attorney has time to prepare.
Step 7: Ask each attorney a lot of questions.
Prepare a list of questions so you don't forget to ask about things that are important to you.Find out how to communicate with the attorney and what their typical response is to phone calls and emails.Ask each attorney how long he or she has been practicing, and what percentage of his or her cases are bankruptcies.How many of those cases are similar to yours?If your situation is more complex and you have significant assets you want to protect, an attorney may not be the best choice.
Step 8: Look at the attorney's demeanor.
What the attorney does during the consultation can tell you a lot about what to expect when working with him or her.Your decision should be based on the attorney's personality.They won't be as effective if you feel intimidated or uncomfortable.How much attention is given to you by the attorney?If he or she appears distracted, pauses the consultation several times, or allows interruptions such as phone calls or questions from assistants, this is an indication of how attentive she will be to your case.If the attorney ignores any of your questions, you should be wary.Ideally, the attorney you choose should be one who wants to help you get a fresh start.
Step 9: Take the office's location and atmosphere into account.
Since you will likely have to return to the office several times, it's important to feel comfortable in your surroundings.Depending on the accessibility and convenience of the office to you, location may be a big factor in your decision.If you rely on public transportation, you want an attorney with an office near a train or bus stop.Other factors, such as the amount of parking available or traffic near the attorney's office, can also play a role in your decision.Think about how you feel inside the office.You should feel safe in the attorney's office.
Step 10: List pros and cons for each candidate.
You should compare the attorneys objectively to make a decision.The way in which you weigh your criteria depends on what's important to you.If you find an attorney rude in person, you may choose not to hire him, even though he's perfect in every other way.
Step 11: Consider the costs relative to each other.
You shouldn't let the cost of an attorney keep you from choosing the best option for you, even if you have unlimited funds.Attorneys who practice bankruptcy law understand that their clients have tight budgets.There are many attorneys who are willing to work out payment plans.If you don't want to pay too much for an attorney, call him or her and explain the situation.Attorneys are willing to negotiate.Don't choose an attorney if he or she charges the lowest fees.If you went with someone more expensive from the beginning, the representation may end up costing you more.If an attorney's fees are lower than anyone else, try to figure out why and then decide if you want to take that risk.Some attorneys are willing to advise you and help you with paperwork, without representing you in court, for a reduced fee.If this is something that interests you, you need to find out if the attorneys you interviewed are open to that option.
Step 12: You should call the attorneys you talked to.
You should let each attorney know of your decision as soon as possible.If you call the attorneys and let them know you chose someone else, they will appreciate the professional courtesy.
Step 13: You can get the details of the representation in writing.
To iron out the details of your agreement, you should meet with your attorney once you've chosen him or her.When payments are due, and how charges will be calculated, should be explained in your written retainer agreement.